Hong Kong’s notoriously humid spring weather often spells trouble for eczema sufferers, but understanding the root causes of this chronic skin condition can empower patients to take control. Dermatologists and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners agree: while genetics and environment play major roles, diet is a critical lever for managing flare-ups. Here, two Hong Kong specialists—skin expert Dr. Lo King-fan and TCM physician Ms. Hui So-fong—break down the science behind eczema and offer practical, evidence-based dietary guidance.
What Causes Eczema? A Dual Perspective
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) affects roughly one in five children in Hong Kong, according to Dr. Lo, a specialist dermatologist. He explains that the condition stems from two interrelated issues: a compromised skin barrier and an overactive immune response. When the outermost layer of skin is naturally thin or dry, allergens like dust mites and pollutants can penetrate microscopic cracks, triggering inflammation. This immune “explosion” leads to redness, swelling, itching, and sometimes oozing—often complicated by bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus aureus.
TCM physician Hui So-fong offers a complementary view, linking eczema to internal imbalances involving “dampness” and “wind.” She notes that flare-ups tend to be worse in spring due to humidity, and that the location of lesions can signal underlying organ disharmony. Damp-predominant eczema often appears on the lower body, while wind-related cases affect the upper body.
The Gut-Skin Connection
Both experts stress the importance of gut health. Dr. Lo highlights research showing that babies delivered vaginally acquire protective Lactobacillus bacteria from the mother’s birth canal, which colonise the gut and skin. Caesarean-born infants miss this exposure, increasing their risk of allergies by 10–20% later in life. Breastfeeding, which supplies over 200 strains of probiotics and antibodies, further supports this protective effect.
For children, the most common food sensitivities linked to eczema are milk, peanuts, eggs, and seafood. Dr. Lo advises against blanket elimination diets; instead, patients should identify specific triggers through medical history or allergy testing.
Foods to Avoid: What Worsens Eczema
TCM physician Hui recommends steering clear of:
- Spicy and irritating foods
- Shellfish (shrimp, crab), goose, beef, and lamb
- High-allergen items like peanuts, pastries, bread, and milk
- Tropical fruits such as durian and pineapple, as well as bamboo shoots
Dr. Lo adds a Western-nutrition perspective, warning against foods that disrupt gut bacterial balance:
- Processed meats (sausages, ham) and instant noodles
- High-sugar treats (candy, packaged cakes)
- Deep-fried, greasy foods (fried chicken, french fries)
“Bad gut bacteria thrive on high-fat, fried foods,” Dr. Lo explains. “When their numbers grow, the immune system becomes unbalanced, making eczema attacks more likely.”
Eczema-Friendly Foods: What to Eat Instead
Hui recommends incorporating cooling, dampness-dispelling, and detoxifying ingredients into meals:
- Mung beans, winter melon, cucumber
- Adzuki beans, barley, corn silk, white hyacinth beans
She also suggests a “Build the Spleen & Expel Dampness” soup made from Poria (20 g), Atractylodes (15 g), Chinese yam (20 g), fox nut (20 g), red dates (4), dried tangerine peel (1 slice), and lean meat. Simmer all ingredients in 2 litres of water for 30 minutes after a quick boil.
From a Western viewpoint, Dr. Lo advises adding probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt, as well as legumes and high-fibre fruits and vegetables to support a healthy gut microbiome.
Debunking Popular Myths
Can egg yolk oil cure eczema?
Dr. Lo clarifies that while any oil—including olive or coconut oil—can soothe the skin barrier, what many people call “egg yolk oil” is actually tar, a dark brown substance produced by burning organic matter. Real TCM egg yolk oil is a clear, amber-coloured extract rarely found in Hong Kong. Homemade tar can be dangerously concentrated, risking skin irritation or even carcinogenic effects. “If you want tar-based products, buy regulated ones like pine tar soap from pharmacies,” he advises.
Does beef cause allergies?
This is a common misconception. A study at Prince of Wales Hospital found that beef protein has the lowest allergenic potential among all meats. However, problems arise when beef is not fresh or has been treated with preservatives like sulfur dioxide, which can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. “Eczema patients should avoid processed or old frozen beef, but fresh beef is generally safe,” Dr. Lo notes.
Looking Ahead: A Personalised Approach
The key takeaway from both experts is that eczema management requires individualised strategies. Rather than eliminating entire food groups, patients should work with healthcare professionals to identify their unique triggers through testing and symptom tracking. As Dr. Lo sums up, “Protect your skin barrier with suitable moisturisers, maintain gut health with a balanced diet, and never self-prescribe extreme diets—especially for children.”
For more Hong Kong-specific food and health advice, stay tuned to LolleRoll’s ongoing series on seasonal wellness.